Funeral Directors

Funeral Directors play an important role in the funeral process after the passing of a loved one. Not only are they there to transport and prepare the body, ready for burial or cremation, but they are also there to offer support and guidance when arranging all other aspects of the funeral.

In addition to the above, your Funeral Director may also provide the following services:

• Viewing
• Embalming of the deceased (if required)
• Liaise with the cemetery or crematoria
• Organise the church or chapel and clergy or celebrant
• Organise flowers, music, caterers
• Supply the hearse/s
• Paperwork (eg. medical certificates)
• Advice on wording and placement of press notices
• Mourning stationary and attendance books
• Collection and return of floral tribute cards
• Referral to grief support (if required)

This list is not exhaustive, nor does it mean that every Funeral Director will provide all of these services. A Funeral Director can volunteer options but in the end it is the family's right to choose whatever arrangements they wish.

Although it can be difficult to make many quick decisions at the time of a loved one's passing,  it is really important that you check (and question, if necessary) what exactly you are paying your Funeral Director for. The costs (which can vary greatly, depending on your choices) should fall under one of these three categories:

• Professional service fees
• Disbursements (ie the Funeral Director's out of pocket expenses)
• Coffin or casket of choice

If you would like more information on arranging a funeral, or would like to find a Funeral Director, please contact the following:

• Australian Funeral Directors' Association
• Funeral Directors' Association (NSW)